2024 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class AMG CLA 35

The A3 is slightly smaller than the CLA, but it's surprisingly roomy inside. The rear seats offer more head- and legroom, although the CLA is more generous with its front passengers. The Audi's extra room also comes at the expense of some trunk space (about 0.5 cubic foot smaller than the Mercedes). Many of the CLA's upgrades this year — larger touchscreen, heated seats — diminish some of the A3's earlier advantages, but the Audi is a bit more fuel-efficient, offers standard real leather upholstery, and remains seriously fun to drive.

The IS 300 and CLA cost about the same and offer many similar features. The Lexus adds a few extras, such as adaptive cruise control, but its sporty rear-wheel-drive layout is the real reason to consider it. Compared to the front-wheel-drive CLA, the IS 300 offers more traditional tail-happy sports car fun. If you need all-wheel drive, both cars offer it. The IS 300 hasn't been redesigned in nearly 10 years, though, and it's showing its age. The CLA delivers a more stylish and modern-looking design with superior tech.

You could consider the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe (more on that above) another alternative to the CLA, but the Model 3 is a left-field consideration if you're curious about going fully electric. Both cars start around the same price, although the Tesla comes with standard features that cost extra on the CLA. The Tesla is also roomier, with twice the trunk space, despite being the same size. The Model 3's 272-mile estimated range should be sufficient for most around-town driving and commuting, and if you travel, you're backed by Tesla's best-in-class charging network.